Mutual funds that are sold with front-end sales loads often offer investors the opportunity to pay reduced sales loads under a variety of circumstances. The specified levels of dollar investment at which the front-end sales charge is reduced are set by the mutual fund company and are generally termed "breakpoints." As set by the mutual fund, the breakpoint levels can be reached through aggregating investments in specified related accounts.

Questions regarding this Notice may be directed to Marc Menchel, Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Regulatory Policy and Oversight, NASD, at (202) 728-8071, or Daniel Sibears, Senior Vice President and Deputy, Department of Member Regulation, Regulatory Policy and Oversight, NASD, (202) 728-8221.